There is a high likelihood that you may require some form of surgery during your lifetime. This could be because you an active athlete suffering from an injury or because your body is struggling as a result of wear and tear. In all case, the objective of the surgery will be to improve your range of motion and general quality of life.
Modern surgical techniques mean that a lot of surgeries are less invasive than they were in the past, which results in shorter recovery times. However, for most people, the prospect of surgery is still quite scary. Therefore, we have put together these six questions to ask before surgery.
Why Do I Need This Operation?
Surgery is usually called upon when more conservative measures have not worked. However, it is essential to be clear about the reasons why the doctor is recommending surgery. Your doctor or surgeon should give you clear examples of what issues need to be addressed and why they are thinking about this particular procedure.
Are There Any Alternatives?
This is a great question to ask your surgeon, as lifestyle changes can often lead to significant improvements. They should be able to provide you with the pros and cons of all available options, which will help you make a more informed decision.
What Are the Risks?
Your doctor should give you these details without prompting, but if they don’t, make sure you ask. Some surgeries have risks and potential complications, which can cause problems further down the line. All surgeries carry the risk of infection post-op, so you need to be clear about what could happen during and after the operation if things don’t go entirely to plan.
How Long Will It Take to Recover After the Surgery?
No matter whether you have had a minor or major procedure, there will be a period of recovery immediately after surgery. The length of recovery time will vary depending on the type of operation, incision, and your general health. Making sure that you follow any guidelines regarding rest and recovery is crucial to a smooth post-op experience.
You may need some home support, physical therapy, or to take some medication. You may also need to take some time off work, so you should always make sure you are clear on what you need to do after the surgery.
What Is Your Experience with This Procedure?
You may feel a little awkward asking a doctor about whether or not they have experience in this procedure, but it is a relevant question. They should be able to answer how many times they have done the procedure and the overall success rate.
What Is My Insurance Coverage?
Once you have decided that surgery is the best route for you, then you will need to make sure that you are clear on whether your insurance will cover the procedure. Ask your insurance provider how much they cover and if there are any additional benefits if things don’t go according to plan. It will also make sense to ask the healthcare provider if they have payments plans so that you can budget accordingly.
Colorado Center for Orthopaedic Excellence 